Wheelan and MacNeil claim surprise win over China's Liu and Li in Haiyang

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Beach volleyball
18/07/2018

Wheelan and MacNeil claim surprise win over China's Liu and Li in Haiyang

Haiyang, China, July 18, 2018 – Canada’s Cameron Wheelan and Jake MacNeil opened the qualification round at the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Haiyang Open on Wednesday with a surprise 2-0 (21-18, 21-12) win over China’s Chuanyong Liu/Ming Li.

The Canadians were off to a good start in Haiyang in front of a big crowd.

“It was really hot for first thing in the morning,” MacNeil said. “We were both surprised when we walked on to centre court for warm-up and there were tons of fans in the stands, which was awesome to see. We definitely don’t usually get that kind of crowd, especially on the first day.

“It’s also great to experience their great volleyball knowledge. The fans were all cheering for very good rallies, and good volleyball digs and blocks. It’s fun to play in front of that kind of crowd.”

The North American team had a good stint from the service line, but praised their rivals for the challenge.

“They were a talented, young team especially in the first set,” Wheelan said. “Luckily, my partner had an amazing day. He was serving unbelievably well from the end line.”

However, their compatriots Liam Kopp/William Hoey were not as fortunate as the United States’ Adam Roberts/Troy Field eliminated the second Canadian team in the qualifiers in straight sets 2-0 (22-20, 22-20).